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Ellen White on the Importance of Kneeling Before Preaching

How does a minister's silent prayer change a church service's atmosphere?

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What did Ellen White say about kneeling before preaching?

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It is pleasing to God for ministers to bow down in silent prayer as soon as they step into the pulpit to ask for divine help. This act of kneeling demonstrates that the minister is communing with God and committing himself to the Lord before he dares to stand before the people.

The Impact of Kneeling in the Pulpit

  • Solemnity and Awe: When a minister bows as the first thing upon entering the desk, it creates an impression of solemnity and awe upon the congregation.

  • A Heavenly Presence: This practice brings the angels of God very near to the assembly.

  • The Source of Strength: By bowing, the minister acknowledges to everyone present that God is the source of his strength.

  • Congregational Participation: Every member of the congregation who fears God should also bow their head and unite in silent prayer with the minister, asking that God grace the meeting with His presence and give power to the truth being proclaimed.

Proper Attitude and Conduct

Ministers are expected to enter the house of God with a dignified and solemn mien. While the outward act of kneeling is a duty that shows dependence upon God, it must be accompanied by a heart that is right before Him. It is vital that the entire service be conducted with awe, as if in the visible presence of the Master of assemblies. Following this pattern of reverence ensures that the ministry of the word will be effectual and that the prayers of faithful worshipers will be heard.

Biblical Examples of Reverence

The duty to kneel is supported by many faithful examples in the Word of God:

  • Jesus: Our Example "kneeled down, and prayed" Luke 22:41.

  • Solomon: During the dedication of the temple, the king did not stand but knelt in the humble position of a petitioner.

  • Daniel: He "kneeled upon his knees three times a day" to pray and give thanks Daniel 6:10.

  • Stephen and Paul: Both of these servants of God followed the practice of kneeling in prayer Acts 7:60.

  • Universal Call: The invitation remains for everyone: "O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker" Psalms 95:6.

Sources · 5
  1. Pr 211.4PrayerEllen Gould White
  2. PaM 180.4Pastoral MinistryEllen Gould White
  3. 1NL 119.11Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 1Ellen Gould White
  4. 3BC 1131.2EGW SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 3Ellen Gould White
  5. 12LtMs, Ms 122, 1897, par. 20Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)Ellen Gould White